Wal-Mart plans to expand renewable energy portfolio

Up to 60 new retail stores in California will be upgraded with solar panel systems.

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is preparing to expand its renewable energy portfolio in California with new solar power systems planned for about 60 new stores. When Wal-Mart’s newest project is completed, more than 75 percent of the company’s stores in California will be partially powered with solar energy.

SolarCity will be partnering with Wal-Mart for the project, which is expected to bring hundreds of new jobs to California. The two companies already have a solid track record of job growth in the state with more than 500 new positions being created thanks to the partnership.

“Wal-Mart has undertaken one of the most ambitious solar initiatives of any company in the U.S., and tripled the scale of its initial project with us,” added Lyndon Rive, SolarCity’s CEO. “Wal-Mart is setting an example that far more companies in the U.S. can follow; it is possible for many businesses to pay less for solar power than they currently pay for electricity.” Source: Wal-Mart Stores

Once completed, Wal-Mart’s solar energy portfolio will be capable of generating up to 70 million kWh of clean energy each year, which is enough energy to power more than 5,000 homes.

The systems will also prevent the creation of 21,700 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually and provide between 20 and 30 percent of each store’s total energy needs.

Solar is just one of many renewable energy sources being employed by Wal-Mart stores around the world. Learn more about the company’s ongoing commitment to clean energy by visiting the Wal-Mart Renewable Energy website.